Peel board hosts JustAsk event to recognize work of students, with guest Bakari Sellers on May 29

​On May 29, Sandalwood Heights Secondary School will host more 100 Peel District School Board students, staff and delegates for the annual JustAskcelebration, an evening to honour the work of students who explore local school issues and enact change. Bakari Sellers, advocate, American politician and attorney, will deliver a keynote to share inspirational stories of overcoming challenges through his experiences as a Black politician.

"In March, students went through a change process, where they found one or two things that they could have an impact on and bring equitable change to in their school buildings through just, effective and measurable commitments to action. Groups received $1,000 to implement their projects," says David Badovinac, co-chair of the JustAsk committee and vice-principal at Sandalwood Heights. "It's important to empower students and amplify their voices at a young age."

On May 29, students will share their work with classmates, staff and administrators from across the Peel board. A few of the projects, include:

The We Rise Student Committee worked to create a sustainable model for conveying student voice to the board's We Rise Together Advisory Committee.

Sandalwood Heights Secondary School's Girls' Leadership Program was established to develop leadership competencies, while promoting a school climate in which they feel safe, valued and supported by each other.

Castle Oaks Public School focused on empowering student voice and well-being through a whole-school survey. Results were shared with staff and school council.

​"A new generation of leaders are changing the world. I look forward to inspiring and learning from these young leaders in the Peel Region," says Bakari Sellers.

The purpose of the JustAsk initiative is to bring t​ogether groups of students, as well as their teachers and administrators, to drive action through a unique model: Invest, Involve, Evolve and Expand. Rather than directly implementing initiatives, the JustAsk model facilitates and empowers student voice to bring change to communities.

The evening has been partially sponsored by TD Insurance. The event will take place on Tuesday, May 29, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Sandalwood Heights located at 2671 Sandalwood Pkwy. East in Brampton.